Michael Hänni
Product leader at the intersection of AI, data, and real-world execution
I build digital products where strategy, data, and technology meet reality. My focus is turning AI, analytics, and complex systems into products that customers actually use—solving real problems, delivering measurable value, and driving sustainable growth in complex organizational environments.
Explore my work
Turning limitations into opportunities
through innovative technology solutions.
I'm a senior product leader with deep experience in digital transformation, applied AI, and data-driven product development. What defines my work is not experimentation for its own sake, but making advanced technology useful—for customers, for organizations, and at scale.
My expertise lies in navigating environments where technical complexity meets organizational reality. I specialize in turning ambitious AI and data strategies into functioning products that integrate seamlessly with existing systems, deliver clear business outcomes, and scale across enterprise ecosystems.
I'm most effective in environments where complexity is high, stakes are real, and execution matters. Whether it's modernizing legacy platforms, embedding AI into customer-facing products, or aligning cross-functional teams around shared outcomes, I bring clarity, pragmatism, and a relentless focus on delivery.
What I stand for
Making AI practical
AI only creates value when it is embedded into products, workflows, and decisions. I focus on applied AI and GenAI use cases that integrate into existing products and platforms, delivering clear outcomes instead of vague innovation narratives.
  • Real-world AI implementation
  • GenAI for knowledge and decision support
  • Integration with production systems
Product thinking over technology theatre
I approach AI and digital transformation as product problems. That means starting from customer and business needs, using data and analytics to guide decisions, and shipping, learning, and improving continuously.
  • Customer-centric problem solving
  • Data-informed decision making
  • Iterative delivery and optimization
Execution in complex organisations
I'm comfortable working where many AI initiatives fail: large organizations with legacy systems, regulation, and multiple stakeholders. I know how to translate strategy into delivery, align business, tech, and design, and move initiatives from concept to production.
  • Enterprise-grade delivery
  • Cross-functional alignment
  • Regulatory compliance integration
Where I bring the most value
My expertise spans the critical areas where AI meets product execution and organizational transformation. I excel in environments that demand both strategic vision and hands-on delivery, where technology must serve real business needs and scale across complex enterprise landscapes.
1
AI-enabled digital products
I design and deliver AI- and data-driven product strategies that turn emerging technologies into competitive advantages. My work includes implementing GenAI for knowledge management, search, and decision support systems, as well as embedding analytics as a core product capability that drives continuous improvement and customer value.
  • GenAI product integration
  • Predictive analytics implementation
  • Data product development
  • ML operations and deployment
2
Digital transformation & platforms
I lead platform modernization initiatives that evolve businesses without disrupting operations. My approach balances innovation with stability, transforming standalone solutions into integrated platforms while maintaining business continuity and managing risk effectively across enterprise environments.
  • Legacy system modernization
  • Platform architecture strategy
  • API-first product design
  • Migration and integration planning
3
Product leadership at scale
I provide end-to-end product ownership and cross-functional team leadership in enterprise environments. My leadership style emphasizes stakeholder alignment, clear accountability, and measurable outcomes, ensuring product initiatives deliver value across complex organizational structures.
  • Strategic roadmap development
  • Team building and mentorship
  • Executive stakeholder management
  • OKR framework implementation
Selected experience
Michael has led digital products and platforms across banking, fintech, and telecommunications, consistently delivering solutions that balance innovation with operational excellence. His track record demonstrates an ability to scale products, modernize platforms, and apply emerging technologies in highly regulated, customer-facing environments.
1
Viseca Payment Services
Co-led Switzerland's most-used finance app, scaling it to over 2 million users. Drove product strategy for digital payments and card management, overseeing end-to-end product development in a competitive fintech landscape.
2
EFAM Systems
Applied GenAI to enterprise knowledge management and business processes. Led AI product initiatives that transformed how organizations access, synthesize, and act on internal knowledge, improving decision-making speed and quality.
3
Swiss Bankers
Led product strategy and execution for payment and card solutions serving Switzerland's banking sector. Managed complex stakeholder ecosystems while delivering regulatory-compliant, customer-centric financial products.
4
Sunrise Communications
Early digital product leadership with full P&L responsibility. Built and scaled digital products in a rapidly evolving telecom market, establishing foundational product management practices and driving revenue growth through innovation.
Full career details, recommendations, and additional context available on LinkedIn.
Beyond delivery
In addition to hands-on product leadership, Michael actively contributes to the broader technology and innovation ecosystem. His work extends beyond individual product delivery to shaping industry thinking, supporting emerging companies, and developing the next generation of product leaders.
Investor & startup advisor
Active member of SICTIC, Switzerland's leading angel investor network, focusing on fintech ventures. Provides strategic guidance to early-stage companies on product-market fit, scaling strategies, and navigating complex financial services landscapes.
Speaker & lecturer
Regular conference speaker and guest lecturer on product management, innovation strategy, AI applications, and behavioral economics. Translates complex technical concepts into actionable frameworks for diverse audiences across industry and academia.
Continuous learner
Committed to staying at the forefront of technology, business model innovation, and user behavior research. Actively engages with emerging trends in AI, product development methodologies, and the psychology of technology adoption.
What to expect when working with me
Clear thinking in complex situations
I cut through ambiguity to identify what matters most. My approach brings structure to complexity, enabling teams and stakeholders to align quickly on priorities and move forward with confidence.
Strong bias toward execution and learning
I believe in shipping early and learning fast. Perfect is the enemy of progress—I prioritize rapid iteration, validated learning, and continuous improvement over prolonged planning cycles.
Calm, pragmatic leadership
I lead with composure and realism, especially under pressure. My leadership style emphasizes transparency, empowerment, and sustainable pace, creating environments where teams can do their best work.
Focus on outcomes, not buzzwords
I measure success by impact, not activity. My communication is direct and jargon-free, focusing on what we're trying to achieve, why it matters, and how we'll know we've succeeded.
What I'm looking for
I'm interested in senior roles where AI, data, and digital products are core to the business—not peripheral initiatives. I thrive in environments that value both strategic thinking and hands-on execution, where product leadership directly influences company direction and competitive positioning.
Product leadership
Chief Product Officer, VP Product, or Head of Product roles where I can shape product vision, build high-performing teams, and drive end-to-end product strategy in growth-stage or established companies undergoing transformation.
AI-enabled product development
Roles focused on building and scaling AI-first or AI-enabled products. I'm particularly interested in opportunities where GenAI, machine learning, and advanced analytics are central to the product proposition and business model.
Digital transformation
Leadership positions with real delivery responsibility in organizations modernizing their technology stack, product portfolio, or business model. I excel where complexity is high and execution discipline is critical to success.

Ideal environment: Organizations that value product thinking, embrace data-driven decision making, and are committed to turning AI capabilities into competitive advantages through disciplined execution and customer-centric innovation.
Let's connect
Based in Zurich, Switzerland
I'm open to conversations about product leadership opportunities, AI-driven product development, and digital transformation initiatives where execution and impact matter.
Whether you're looking to hire for a senior product role, seeking advice on AI product strategy, or interested in collaboration opportunities, I welcome meaningful conversations about building products that make a difference.
This site reflects my professional focus and experience as of 2025. For the most current information, project details, and recommendations, please visit my LinkedIn profile.